As we welcome the New Year, there are some significant updates to Indiana’s child labor laws that will impact both teenagers who work part-time jobs and employers across the state. Starting January 1st, 2025, these new rules aim to offer more flexibility for older teens while still protecting younger teens. Here’s a breakdown of the top updates to Indiana’s child labor laws.
1. New Child Labor Law Changes for Older Teens
One of the most important changes coming in 2025 is for teenagers aged 16 and 17. These older teens will now have the same work hour rights as adults. This means they can work any shift, including early mornings, late nights, or weekends, and can do so with or without adult supervision.
This change provides more flexibility for both teens and employers. For industries like fast food, retail, and hospitality, where scheduling can be tough, this is a big deal. It will give teens more chances to gain work experience and be available for a wider range of shifts, which could be a big plus for employers looking for extra help during peak hours.
2. Restrictions Still Apply to Younger Teens
While the new rules give older teens more freedom, there are still restrictions in place for younger teens, particularly those aged 14 and 15. These restrictions are designed to ensure that younger teens can still focus on their studies and get enough rest while earning some extra money.
Here are the key rules for 14 and 15-year-olds:
- On school days: They can work up to 3 hours.
- On non-school days: They can work up to 8 hours.
- During a school week: They can work up to 18 hours.
- During summer breaks: They can work up to 40 hours per week.
- They cannot start work before 7 a.m. and must finish by 7 p.m. during the school year.
- During summer, they can work later but must finish by 9 p.m.
These rules ensure that younger teens can balance their work, school, and rest time effectively, which is important for their health and well-being.
3. Why These Changes Matter
The changes to Indiana’s child labor laws could have a big impact on families, businesses, and teenagers themselves. For teens, these updates mean more opportunities to earn money and gain valuable work experience. It will also help them learn skills that can benefit them later in life, all while still leaving time for school and other activities.
For parents, these changes might require more attention to their teen’s work schedules, especially if they’re working longer hours. It may mean finding a balance between family time, school, and work.
For employers, these updates provide more flexibility when it comes to hiring and scheduling younger workers. Businesses, particularly in industries like retail and food services, will benefit from having the option to hire older teens for a wider range of shifts. This will help make staffing easier and more efficient.
As 2025 begins, these changes to Indiana’s child labor laws aim to support both the workforce and the education of younger teens. Older teens will enjoy more flexibility in their work schedules, while younger teens will still be protected with strict rules that prioritize their education and rest. Whether you’re a parent, teen, or employer, understanding these changes will help you stay compliant and make the most of the new year.
Leave a Reply